"It's probably not a coincidence that the 2009 Commonwealth Awards, given annually since 2003 by smart growth advocates 10,000 Friends of Pennsylvania, will for the first time include honors for individuals who have contributed valuable influence on their community.

"It is especially important in this time of severely constrained fiscal resources to promote smart growth design that will help us grow more sustainably," says 10,000 Friends President and CEO Judy Schwank." For the complete story, click here.